In 2013, film director and animator Hayao Miyazaki suddenly announced his retirement at the age of 72. But he couldn’t shake his burning desire to create. After an encounter with young CGI animators, Miyazaki overcame his resistance to the medium and embarked upon a journey to translate his hands-on creative methods into the language of pixels and algorithms.

The notoriously particular artist is in turn delighted and infuriated by the world of computerized animation and we witness both his struggles and his delight in discovery as he puts his young collaborators through creative boot camp even as he is learning new techniques from them. Made over a period of two years, this “portrait of the artist as an old man” is candid and thought-provoking. A must for serious fans of animated film.

We have added special screenings of Miyazaki’s classic HOWL’S MOVING CASTLE this week to accompany this documentary. Click here to see the schedule and buy tickets.

REVIEWS

“An affectionate look at the master’s inextinguishable impulse to create that’s all the more enchanting for its casual familiarity.” – Peter Debruge, Variety

“Starting as a dirge and ending as an ode to joy… provides a privileged glimpse into the creative processes of one of the greatest animators who ever lived.” – Kenneth Turan, Los Angeles Times

“For those who, like me, adore his life’s work, it’s a precious and fascinating glimpse into the inner life of the world’s greatest living animator.” – Marc Savlov, Austin Chronicle